FIREFIGHTERS BATTLING FIRE IN SMOKVICA ON KORCULA ISLAND

( Editorial: --> 2922 ) SMOKVICA, 10 Aug (Hina) - The situation in the fire-ravaged area of Smokvica, Korcula island, is relatively stable compared to the situation this morning, chief fire commander Mladen Jurin told Hina Monday evening. The fire no longer poses a threat to Smokvica and Brna. The fire scene has been encircled by fire brigades and put under control on its eastern front. About 1,400 hectares of pine forest, olive groves and vineyards have been engulfed by fire. Firefighters are working in extraordinary conditions and are making superhuman efforts. Had there been no such will and enthusiasm, an area five times larger would have been consumed by fire, Jurin said. The fire front is about eight km long and two km wide and it will be necessary to control the area in the next two days, Jurin said. (hina) rml 102042 MET aug 98